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Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers and father figures out there. We hope you enjoy your special day!

“I was born in South America. When I was 4 years old, my father brought our family here to the United States. He wanted a better life for his family. As an adult, I can only imagine how scary that must have been to start over in a new country, language and culture unknown. But his bravery gave my sister and I opportunities that were limitless and I’ll always be grateful to him for taking that huge step. This Father’s Day, we will be celebrating my dad by having a BBQ and hopefully a sail in the evening!” – Mariela Blanco, Director of Sales

“My dad taught me to never hold a grudge as you never know what tomorrow will bring. We’re going to have dinner at Seasons 52 to celebrate Father’s Day this year.” – Melissa Dill, Catering Sales Manager

“My dad taught me that Frank Sinatra was the best singer who ever lived! I’m spending the day with my daughter and her dad! It’s his first Father’s Day!!”
– Antoinette Mastropieri, Conference Services Manager

“One life lesson (wow there’s so many though) I would say to reach for the stars and any goals that you set for yourself you can achieve them as long as you put your mind to it and try your hardest you will succeed, and I remember my dad was always so proud of me no matter what. Plans for father’s day is spending it with all the dads I know at my mom’s house with a BBQ, smoked ribs, pool, sun, and great company.” – Cindy McClenahan, Assistant Catering Manager

“My father taught me to be independent. He was a hard worker an also taught me many thing in the construction field. My father passed away 14 years ago.” – Jennifer Dockery, Housekeeping Assistant Manager

“All through my life, my dad always worked hard. He would go into work early in the morning before anyone else was awake and he’d come home in the evening. Then we’d have dinner, which was usually something simple except on the weekends, when he didn’t have to work. My dad taught us (my brother, sister, and me) to work hard, be humble, and always say “Thank you” to people. People appreciate it when you thank someone for their time or for a favor. I find myself doing that to this day. He wasn’t really one that bragged about their accomplishments. He thanked everyone that helped him along the way. That is one of the main lessons that my dad would drill into our heads when we were kids and young adults. – Karine McShulkis, Purchasing Manager

“My father has taught me that every time one door closes another one opens, and no matter what you do for work, do it to your fullest ability. I have used both of these lessons in my daily life. My father used to have a company that installed plumbing in new houses, he lost it when the housing market crashed but he never gave up. He had many jobs and he always excelled at what he did. I admire him for that and that has been an example for me to strive towards. For Father’s Day, we are going to Art All Night in Trenton. It has been something that we have done before and it is always a great night to spend with my dad.” – Zachary Marcus, Front Desk Agent

Special thanks to our staff for taking part in our tribute to Father’s Day. If you’re looking for plans for this weekend, you can always visit us for a delicious meal at the Yankee Doodle Tap Room!

Happy Fall! The autumn leaves are gleaming in ember-red, toasty brown, and amber yellow. You can smell the crisp cool air, feel the warmth of an oven baking, and hear the rustling of leaves around you. During this wonderful time of year, you may find yourself in reflection of: “What am I grateful for?” and “How can I say ‘thank you’ to all the special people in my life?” If you are looking for ways to express your gratitude and show sincere appreciation, Nassau Inn and Palmer Square are here to help you get ready for the season of thankfulness!

Saturday, November 11
1:00pm
So you know your main courses for the holidays… but what about the side dishes? Join Terra Momo’s most talented on their Inside Scoop to Side Dishes Workshop to learn the art of the side dish with in-depth cooking demonstrations, including: sausage and pear focaccia, homemade green bean casserole, and apple pumpkin crisp! Click here to RSVP.

Sunday, November 12
11:00am
Kitchen Kaper’s Carving the Bird Workshop will teach you to carve your main dish like an expert just in time for the holidays! A Wusthof knife professional will demonstrate the proper carving technique with a delicious turkey provided by the Yankee Doodle Tap Room! Click here to RSVP.

Saturday, November 18
2:00pm
Check out the hottest trends in mixology when it comes to a new favorite holiday cocktail that is sure to impress your guests at your next holiday party! Learn the art of crafting the perfect seasonal cocktail at the Holiday Mixology Workshop at the Yankee Doodle Tap Room. Click here to RSVP.

Sunday, November 19
Time: TBD
Join the Cheesy Holiday Fun Workshop at Olsson’s Fine Foods for cheesy demonstrations as they go over best practices for easy, make-ahead appetizers! Click here to RSVP.

Thursday, November 23
12:00pm, 2:00pm, & 4:00pm
‘Tis the season to spend quality time with loved ones and FEAST. Join family and friends for a traditional Thanksgiving Buffet styled meal at the Yankee Doodle Tap Room. Click here to view the Thanksgiving Menu. Call 609-688-2600 to RSVP.

Friday, November 24
5:00pm
On Christmas Eve, come to the Palmer Square Green to see the annual Christmas Tree Lighting. The 65-foot Norwegian Spruce is adorned with over 32,000 lights and will be lit with the help of Santa Claus. Plus, there will be a traditional celebration featuring music by Holiday Brass, Princeton High School Choir …and a special performance by American Repertory Ballet’s Nutcracker and Clara.

Sunday, December 10
9:00am & 12:00pm
Join us at the Nassau Inn when the Big Man comes back to town for the second annual Breakfast with Santa! Enjoy a traditional, yet upscale breakfast buffet, children’s activities, one on one time with Santa PLUS a professional family photo taken (includes a digital copy), meet & greet with Santa that includes sing-alongs, and a special treat from Santa!Breakfast Menu here. | Click here for Breakfast Tickets.Brunch Menu here. | Click here for Brunch Tickets.

We also welcome you to celebrate your Holiday Party at the most magical place in Princeton! Complimentary champagne toast and holiday favor with every Dinner or Lunch booked.Click here to view the Holiday Party Menu. Call 609-921-7500 to book your Nassau Inn Holiday Party!

Thursday, December 14
5:00 – 6:00pm
Join special guest speakers and enjoy live music during the Annual Menorah Lighting! The ceremony will take place at the North Plaza on Hulfish Street in front of Mediterra restaurant. More details TBD.

There is so much holiday splendor to enjoy during this season of thankfulness! A trip to Princeton will give you inspiration on wonderful ways to show appreciation to your dearest ones – whether that’s through spending quality time together, enjoying delicious meals, or attending festive events! Be sure to visit NassauInn.com/events and PalmerSquare.com/events to stay updated on everything that’s going on in town, and see you around!

Summer PhotoshootThere’s no better place for a photoshoot than Princeton, where every street has an aesthetic backdrop. Breathe in the fresh summer air while you walk downtown and flaunt your style!Featured Princeton Fashionista: Lana Jayne

Design at Dohm Alley
The alley between Starbucks and Landau is being creatively transformed and will soon be the go-to spot for enjoying art during a coffee break. Dohm Alley’s latest designs include a moon gate, sculptures, art and poetry from English Romantic Poets.

Swimming Pool Park
Summertime living is sweeter when you go swimming! Lather on sunscreen, put on your favorite swimsuit, carry that book you’ve always wanted to read and head over to the pool. Community Park Pool on Witherspoon Street offers swimming, lessons, waterslides, diving boards and a snack bar.

Summer Outdoor Movies
Bring your picnic basket, chair, blanket and love for movies under the stars! There will be outdoor movies begin playing at 8:30pm on the Palmer Square Green during these Friday nights:
June 16th – The Iron Giant
July 14th – The Parent Trap
August 18th – Moana

Play & EnergizeJoin JaZams Summer Block Party – Friday, June 16th
Fun for all ages, includes games, crafts, live performances and so much more!The Princeton Parket’s Energy Playground in front of JaZams is also a unique spot to sit down, eat ice cream, play board games and energize!

Wow! The @princeton.parklet is really looking great! We can't wait to see the finished product of this alternative energy themed masterpiece! #palmersquare #princetonnj @jazamstoys

Enjoy the Grammy-winning jazz sounds of the Peter Martin Trio at McCarter's Berlind Theatre on Saturday, June 17th at 8 pm. Make it a date! Visit http://princetonfestival.org/event/2017-jazz/, stop by McCarter's Ticket Office, or call 609.258.2787 today. Specially priced student tickets are also available for this performance.

Live MusicNothing screams summer quite like ice cream, but Halo Pub doubles down on the summer vibe with outdoor live music every Saturday night!Photo by Nattydhay
Don’t forget about Live Music & Tastings, Thursdays on the Yankee Doodle Tap Room patio! There will also be music on Palmer Square every Saturday in July and August between 2-4pm.

Terhune OrchardsWhether you’re looking for fresh fruit to eat or make DIY jam, fruit picking is a fun way to welcome summertime! Pick strawberries and make your own fresh strawberry ice cream with the Terhune Orchards recipe. They also have a new winery and many opportunities for tastings.

26th Annual JazzfeastSunday, September 17, 12pm-6pm.
JazzFeast is an open-air jazz festival that swings with the joy of great music and food! Spend the day listening to performances by some of the industry’s best Jazz musicians and showcasing many local food vendors.

Show us how you’re spending your summer, using the tag #SummerInnPrinceton!

Looking for something energy boosting, comforting, or relaxing and enjoyable? Explore our tips to eating for all your moods!

Energize Your Day!
Whether you’re doing morning yoga with Lululemon, taking a nature walk, or shopping around downtown Princeton, you’ll want to feel good and energized for the day. Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These nourishments will give you a boost of energy to kick-start the morning and recharge you with mental clarity, physical energy, and a happier mood.

Relax and Unwind
After a cold winter, a little sunshine can do a lot for your serotonin levels and boost your mood. Let the outdoor breeze and live acoustics carry you away as you unwind to seasonal dishes on the Yankee Doodle Tap Room patio.

Take a Little ComfortWe all have certain dishes that make us feel good. You don’t need an excuse to want to feel comforted, and there’s nothing better than a little rice and bean for the soul.“Plaintain, Saffron Rice & Black Beans was inspired by Latin and Cuban dishes, which are traditionally served with plantains, rice, and beans,” says Chef LaCorte. Our chefs have added a twist to the oozing dish with a perfectly cooked yolk, Pico de Gallo, and a dollop of guacamole sour cream on top.

You also can’t go wrong with House Smoked Spare Ribs that has a zesty orange flavor and smokiness reminiscent of summer.

End on a Happy Note!
There’s just something about dessert that makes you smile. Could it be that it contains high levels of endorphins, minerals, and antioxidants that take the blues away? Or is it just that they taste so good?

Lemon Curd, Blueberry Compote in a Mason Jar“Lemons are blueberries are a classic combination,” says Chef LaCorte. “A match made in heaven.”

Spring is officially here and so is our new cocktail menu! Does the weather make you crave light and refreshing or fruity and tropical drinks? If so, Yankee Doodle Tap Room has the right mixture for you!

Roc N Gin

“The Roc N Gin is light, refreshing and delicious – like lemonade but with a twist,” says Virginia Fry, senior manager of Yankee Doodle Tap Room and co-creator of this cocktail.

John Ryan, bartender and cocktail connoisseur, tells the story of how Roc N Gin was created three summers ago…

“One dastardly dangerous evening, two goddesses came together in harmony and transcended their worries and creativity into conceiving this immaculate libation. The Roc N Gin, though beautiful to the taste buds, can be fallacious due to its ‘masking of its alcohol’ quality. This cocktail has been named by the two creators, Virginia Fry ‘Gin’ & Natacha ‘Roc’.” — John Ryan

How to Make: In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 oz. Gin, ½ oz. Elderflower Liquor, muddled cucumber, fresh lemonade, and Agave Nectar; shake over ice so it’s nice and cold when combined. For garnish, you’ll want to use a fresh rosemary sprig, because the herb aroma complements the refreshing lemon-cucumber flavor.

Pomegranate SangriaFresh pomegranate puree and fruit infusion, sangria is the perfect complement to our Sunday Brunch on the patio!

Grapefruit BasilBubbly and aromatic with fresh ruby red grapefruit and basil, this is part of our spring mocktail series (though you may certainly add alcohol upon request to any of our drinks)!

Thirsty? If you like light and refreshing or fruity and tropical, we have the cocktail for you! Stay updated with our social media for more on recipes, tastings, and events. Also come visit us starting this week for a taste of the New Spring Lunch & Dinner Menus! Try our seasonal cocktails while you’re at it. Cheers!

On March 19th, the Nassau Inn and the Princeton community bring to town a wedding showcase event unlike any other where guests can truly experience everything for themselves and see why Princeton is THE WEDDING DESTINATION!

A PRINCETON WEDDING SHOWCASE, MARCH 19th, 12-4pm at Nassau Inn, open house style.

Couples who picture a magical winter wedding, cocktail hour by lantern light, a light and breezy outdoor ceremony or a dramatic ballroom event, will be inspired by tangible exhibits and planning tips on bringing those visions to life. This year’s second annual event will tap into the creative minds of design and floral experts such as Petal Pushers, Viburnum Designs & Brillman’s Rental Barn and bring guests fully designed rooms they can walk through, feel and picture themselves in.

Pre-registered guests will have the opportunity to work with one of Nassau Inn’s preferred photographers Kyo Morishima and have their engagement photo taken in an iconic setting. Digital copies will be provided to the guests for their personal use.

The timeless debate of live music, DJ or both will be easy to answer after guests experience performances by Franklin and Alison Orchestra, Sound Choice DJ and Ambient DJ. Dancing shoes are a must because the Inn’s preferred musicians will keep the party going all day! Couples looking to add a little flair to their event should be sure to catch Don’s Piano who will be playing cocktail music in the timeless second floor lobby and Princeton’s very own Tiger Lilies acapella group will make a special appearance and perform a few of their hits!

Brides fall in love with gorgeous gowns from The Bridal Suite and Boutique of Hamilton. The live model fashion show format will allow fluid conversation with the models. Those important questions such as fit and comfort level will all be answered! Once they know what they want to wear for the big day, a trip to see the beauty consultants from Cosmo Bleu Salon will get brides a mini makeover and up-do trial.

Grooms will not be forgotten at the wedding show. New this year, Brooks Brothers will join in the live model fashion show. From Tuxedos to custom tailored suits, you’re sure to find the right style and budget for your groom and groomsmen. The show is the perfect opportunity to cross off everything on “his” to do list in one day. A1 Limousine will be here with demo vehicles and Nassau Inn staff is on hand to answer all of his rehearsal dinner questions.

Of course no showcase would be complete without menu sampling. This year guests should come hungry and ready to sample two different style menus. Guest can taste the classic braised beef short rib entree or sample selections from our new reception style menu “Midnight in Paris.” In addition to wedding entrees, try popular enhancements such as post wedding breakfasts, cocktail hour stations and “Say Good Night Gracie’s”. Couples may want to add a touch of local flair to complement their wedding packages. Tastings from Nassau Inn’s local partners will also be available. Visit Olsson’s Fine Foods, Chez Alice, Cartero & Cavero, Thomas Sweets’ and the Caketeria at the showcase.

Vendors and sponsors have added great door prizes and giveaways to this year’s event. Hamilton Jewelers has provided a chance to win a $500 gift card. Allegiant Air has provided honeymoon airfare for two. All preregistered brides will receive a swag bag sponsored by Palmer Square with exclusive offers and gifts from participating vendors and partners and many more door prizes will be announced.

Nassau Inn is offering exclusive discounts to those who come prepared to book their wedding the day of the show, guests can receive 17% off their package (exclusions apply).

Having trouble deciding what music is right for your wedding? Stop by the Princeton Wedding Showcase on Sunday, March 19th and hear the best of musical offerings!

“The Battle of the Band”… or DJ

Live bands get the crowd excited, add a touch of sophistication and are attuned to playing music according to the “feel” of the room. Plus, having a live band cover your song during the first dance is very intimate and romantic. Franklin & Alison Music plays a variety of musical genres ranging from Classical, Rock, Hip Hop, Jazz, Caribbean and Latin. Their talented musicians can play anything and will be taking requests at the wedding show!

We love DJs because they can easily find your favorite songs AND they make awesome MC’s who can really set the mood and keep the party fun and energetic. Every couple is different, so you’ll want to find a DJ that fits your personality at the wedding show! Sound Choice DJ is our MC for the day, so be sure to hear them throughout the day as they keep the party going! Ambient DJ, one of our house favorites, brings a photo booth with him and covers more than just music. Scratch Weddings is a specialty turntable DJ – you won’t want to miss their set!

Add a Personalized Touch

Your heart and soul will fall in love with Don’s Piano, who will be playing various melodic Jazz pieces at the wedding show! Piano is great for the wedding ceremony and cocktail hour because of its relaxing ambiance and touch of sentiment.

Looking for the ultimate Princetonian experience? Nothing says it quite like acapella music from Princeton’s very own Tiger Lilies, who will stop by the show on the 19th to serenade you!

Still deciding on your wedding music? Let us help you discover the best at the Princeton Wedding Showcase on Sunday, March 19th! Pre-register at PrincetonWeddingShow.com.

About the Author: Lily Lee is the Marketing Assistant at the historical Nassau Inn. She graduated from Rutgers University with a B.A. in Communications, minor in Digital Information & Media, and a passion for English and creative writing.

“Cheese is fulfilling to eat and full of flavor. It’s never boring,” says Rudie Smit, who owns Olsson’s Fine Foods with his wife, Jennifer. “All cheeses are different and the ongoing discovery process is truly fascinating. Learning about cheese is like uncovering a book full of stories – there’s a story behind the person who made the cheese, how they first made it and how the flavors developed over time,” he says. Hear all about these stories AND enjoy his gourmet cheese at the Princeton Wedding Showcase in March! In the meantime, learn the top 5 ways to pair cheese with wine/liquor with Rudie’s pro tips!

Creamier cheeses love the subtle flavor of sparkling white wine. Délice de Bourgogne, a French triple cream cheese, goes well with champagne. This is Rudie’s favorite pairing.

Red wine goes with harder cheeses such as Gouda, Manchego and Goat Milk Cheese. Carménère wine from Chile is fruity, not bitter nor tart, which pairs best with earthy and nutty cheeses.

Malt Whiskey goes with 5 Year Aged Gouda. Rudie and his folks call it “Candy Cheese” because of its sweetness, butterscotch-caramel flavor and crunchy texture.

Cheese with beer is a classic pairing that goes way back in Europe and has many variations… Here are a few!Rudie’s tips on pairing cheese with beer:

Stouts and porters go with smoked cheese.

Lagers go better with younger cheeses such as cheddar.

Crisp beer, just like white wine, goes with creamier cheeses.

Delice de Jura is a pasteurized milk cheese. When melted, you can serve it on a spoon or spread it on crusty bread. This cheese pairs best with fruity red or white wine and is a great choice for weddings and parties, especially in the spring.

If this made you hungry, then it’s time to head over to Olsson’s Fine Foods and satisfy your cheese cravings! This gourmet cheese shop is only a walk away from our doorsteps, and we’re partnered together in various ways. Olsson’s specialty imported cheeses are available on our corporate, social and wedding menu packages. Cheese and entertaining also go hand-in-hand. If you’re newly engaged, don’t miss out on a chance to taste Olsson’s Gourmet Cheese at our Princeton Wedding Showcase on Sunday, March 19th! Pre-register for the event here. See you there!

About the Author: Lily Lee is the Marketing Assistant at the historical Nassau Inn. She graduated from Rutgers University with a B.A. in Communications, minor in Digital Information & Media, and a passion for English and creative writing.

Kyo and Janna are a husband-and-wife team who run Kyo Morishima Photography, a relaxed, documentary-style wedding photography studio based in central New Jersey. They were sponsors of our 2nd annual Princeton Wedding Showcase and one of our favorite photographers to work with! Here are their tips for great engagement photos.

Visit your happy place!
Think of a place to go or an activity to do together that you makes you smile and feel happy. For instance, if you love being with your dog, go for a walk with your dog! Or if you love coffee, go to one of your favorite cafes. Or if you love playing games together, have a Jenga match!

Dress to make yourself happy
Don’t worry too much about what type of clothes to wear. There are a few simple guidelines you should keep in mind: mid-tone, plain colors or very simple patterns look best; very dark or light colors or bold, big patterns can be challenging in photographs. But other than that, the important thing is to wear clothes that make YOU feel like you look great and are comfortable!

Cloudy, snowy, or misty weather can be just as beautiful as clear skies
Don’t worry too much about the weather or the time of year. It’s possible to take great photos in most types of weather and at any time of year. But do check with your photographer about his or her policy regarding rescheduling the photo shoot if the weather is TOTALLY uncooperative (like, if it’s raining cats and dogs).

Schedule your photo session when the light is prettiest
The best light for photos is very early in the day when the sun is rising, or late in the afternoon when the sun is setting. We often schedule engagement sessions to begin about two hours before sunset time.

Expect that it’ll take a bit of time to relax
In the beginning of the photo shoot, you’ll probably feel a little stiff and weird. After all, you’re probably not used to being followed around by a photographer (unless you’re a professional model). That’s completely natural. Go with the flow and keep focusing on each other. Treat the photo session like a fun date.

Find a photographer with whom you connect
It’s definitely important that you feel a rapport with your photographer. That’s one of the things you should pay attention to when you first meet each other. Do you have a good feeling about him or her? Can you have a conversation? Do you *like* him or her? If you connect with each other, that will have a big impact on how the pictures turn out. When you get along with your photographer, it will make it so much easier to relax in front of the camera.